WARNING: ARTICLE FEATURES SPOILERS
The premiere of WandaVision has the entertainment world stirring. Not only are Marvel fans excited, but the show's reach has proven to go far beyond the typical superhero fandom. The two premiere episodes have already garnered the show a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and viewers are eagerly awaiting the next episodes.
And it's easy to see why. The show isn't your typical superhero fare filled with endless action and blockbuster fight scenes. WandaVision is unique, captivating, and extremely well-made. Here are nine reasons why even non-Marvel fans will love watching WandaVision.
It's A Nod To Classic Sitcoms
Viewers will instantly notice that the show starts off in black and white, and even has its own cheesy theme song. The style of the show pays homage to classic sitcoms, while also poking fun at them. In fact, viewers will especially notice direct parodies of shows like Bewitched and I Love Lucy. The superhero effects, like Wanda cooking in the kitchen, are even stylized to look similar to how the effects would have been done during a sitcom some sixty years ago.
The Commercials
Similar to Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez's Grindhouse, WandaVision comes complete with its own commercial breaks, advertising things like "modern" toasters and men's watches.
The commercials are humorous and enjoyable, but they are also a very clear commentary on domestic life from that time period, most notably by showing what the role of women was during the middle of the century. There's also something off about them...as if they're a clue to something more nefarious in the show.
The Show's Commentary on Women and Domestic Life
Not only in the commercials but throughout the series as a whole, WandaVision depicts what life was like for women during the 50s and early 60s - often referred to as "the cult of domesticity."
Women in the show are depicted as housewives, forced to partake in the neighborhood gossip, competing with other housewives for popularity and reputation. The series makes sure to highlight how unflattering the role truly was.
WandaVision also uses this to show a larger danger. Throughout the episodes, Wanda seems to struggle with her purpose, often wondering why she's partaking in these routines...and begins to question if everything around her is even real.
Use of Black and White and Color
Similar to The Wizard of Oz, WandaVision uses a distinct contrast between black and white and color. It's an interesting and fascinating strategy that also helps let viewers know something isn't quite right in this perfect little town.
In fact, the first time the audience sees color in the show is during one of the commercial segments, when the toaster light flashes red...despite being surrounded by black and white.
It's a Slow Burn Mystery
One thing that everyone is talking about is the fact that WandaVision is creating a lot of questions among the audience. There's so much that doesn't quite make sense...and that's exactly why the show is getting so much buzz. Unlike many superhero movies that jump straight into the action, WandaVision is turning out to have a complex plot filled with mystery and danger.
The show's style is a departure from the status quo, but considering how much time and talent was put into the series' development, it's clear that WandaVision is a puzzle worth putting together.
The Show Has an Excellent Cast
Part of what makes this mystery so compelling is the fact that WandaVision has an all-star cast of talented, veteran actors who are all playing their parts perfectly.
Joining stars Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany is a strong supporting cast, including Debra Jo Rupp (That 70s Show), Kat Denning (2 Broke Girls), Fred Melamed (Lady Dynamite), and the absolutely phenomenal Kathryn Hahn. And just like The Mandalorian, WandaVision is scheduled to have numerous surprise cameos.
It's Actually Extremely Funny
The series has numerous moments of humor, like when they spoof old sitcoms or make jokes about suburban life. But leading the show's comedic charge is Kathryn Hahn, who plays Wanda and Vision's next-door neighbor. Each and every line she delivers is flawless, perfect, and hysterical.
There are numerous laugh out loud moments during the first two episodes thanks to Hahn, and some of the humor is even a little more "mature" than one would expect from Disney. It's a welcomed and hilarious addition to WandaVision.
It's a Blockbuster TV Show
Just like The Mandalorian, Disney+ spared no expense with WandaVision. The great cast, the excellent cinematography, the flawless costuming, and an intricate storyline - it's all proof that Disney has created WandaVision to be a premium experience.
In fact, NBC has even called the show "prestige TV." It's clear that Disney+ plans to take on networks like HBO in creating high-budget epics that are sure to get noticed at the Golden Globes and Emmys.
It's Visually Stunning
WandaVision's big-budget has created an absolute visual masterpiece. For audiences who don't know (or care) about Marvel, there's still lots to watch in WandaVison. It's an overall masterpiece that's captivating and exciting.
The show has a natural way of drawing the audience in. Even if someone doesn't quite get what's going on at first...it compels the viewer to keep watching. It grabs the eye and keeps it.